Even before the start of Ramadan, the public is facing a new challenge as a severe flour shortage has emerged, raising concerns over a possible increase in roti prices.
According to the Naanbai Association, the shortage of flour in the market has created serious difficulties for tandoor owners, especially in Rawalpindi, where prices have surged sharply over the past few days.
Flour Prices Surge Sharply
The association revealed that the price of an 80-kg fine flour bag has climbed to Rs 12,800, while an 80-kg red flour bag is now selling for Rs 11,500. This represents an increase of Rs 1,200 to Rs 1,800 per bag, putting additional pressure on small businesses.
Naanbais warned that if prices continue to rise, they will be forced to increase the price of roti, further burdening consumers during the holy month.
Shortage of Official Flour Adds to Problems
Tandoor owners complained that the shortage of government-supplied flour has worsened the situation, leaving them with no option but to purchase flour from the open market at higher rates.
Association Demands Immediate Government Action
The Naanbai Association has urged both the federal and Punjab governments to take immediate steps to stabilize flour prices and ensure availability at affordable rates.
An emergency meeting of the Rawalpindi Division Naanbai Association has been called, with a warning that if authorities fail to act, a shutter-down strike may be announced.
The association emphasized that instead of taking action against tandoor owners, the Punjab government should crack down on the flour mafia to prevent artificial shortages and price manipulation.
